Food, Nutrition & Health: A Key Topic for UPSC & Competitive Exams
Food, Nutrition, and Health play a vital role in shaping public health policies and ensuring nutritional security. With rising concerns over malnutrition, obesity, and food safety, government initiatives like POSHAN Abhiyaan, the Mid-Day Meal Scheme, and Food Fortification are crucial for national well-being. Competitive exams often test knowledge of nutrition-related policies, global health indices, and food security measures.
The link between diet, lifestyle diseases, and economic productivity is a growing concern. The Global Hunger Index, National Nutrition Mission, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) highlight the urgency of ensuring balanced nutrition and healthcare access for a healthy population.
Click the links below to get the Articles and MCQ Quiz on Food, Nutrition & Health under Current Affairs:
Heart health is vital for overall well-being, especially with rising diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. These often overlap, heightening risk. Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle with regular screenings helps reduce complications. Supplements and natural remedies like omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins support cardiac function and prevent damage.
Gadgets and apps monitor heart rate, blood pressure, and fitness. Courses raise awareness, and startups in heart care are driving innovation. Launching a heart health startup can transform global wellness. Learn More
Mental health is vital for overall well-being, with depression being a common challenge. Symptoms include persistent sadness, loss of interest, fatigue, and trouble concentrating. Causes may stem from genetics, stress, trauma, or chemical imbalances. Preventive steps include a healthy lifestyle, stress management, and strong social support.
Depression treatment involves therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Self-help includes exercise, quality sleep, and mindfulness. Startups now offer gadgets and digital therapeutics, such as wearables and online programs, to support mental health. Learn More
Maintaining dental health is essential not just for a bright smile but also for your overall health. A consistent daily routine that includes proper brushing, the use of suitable toothpaste and mouthwash, and a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D helps prevent many oral problems.
Avoiding habits like smoking and excessive sugar intake reduces the risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. From home remedies to professional care and career opportunities, dental health offers wide-ranging prospects. Learn More
Canning is a widely used food preservation method that involves sealing food in airtight containers and heating it to kill harmful bacteria, extending shelf life. It provides convenience, longer storage, and includes a range of products like fruits, vegetables, meats, and soups, often retaining much of their nutritional value.
The canning industry opens doors to diverse career paths, from food processing roles to entrepreneurial ventures. Courses in canning teach preservation skills, while brands like Heinz and Del Monte highlight its global appeal. Learn More
Milk is an essential and versatile food, ranging from dairy to plant-based types like almond, soy, and oat milk. Rich in calcium, protein, and vitamins, it supports bone health, muscle repair, and immunity. Despite lactose intolerance, options like lactose-free milk and fermented dairy offer benefits.
Beyond drinking, milk is used in cooking, skincare, and health. Careers span from courses to jobs in brands like Amul, Country Delight, and Milk Mantra, offering high-return ventures. Learn More
Lifestyle refers to daily choices, habits, and routines that shape how we live, work, eat, rest, and connect. From lifestyle categories like active, passive, or balanced, to key elements like nutrition, exercise, sleep, and mental wellness, a healthy lifestyle offers benefits like disease prevention and emotional stability.
In contrast, an unhealthy lifestyle causes fatigue, chronic diseases, and stress. Avoid food items that spoil lifestyle, explore lifestyle courses, or start NGOs to inspire change. Learn More
Aloe Vera is a versatile plant with health benefits like boosting immune function, promoting skin healing, and aiding digestive health. It's widely used in home, cosmetic, and personal care products, such as soothing burns and treating acne. The Aloe Vera market is growing in India due to increasing demand for natural remedies and sustainable products.
Starting a venture in Aloe Vera cultivation or processing is a lucrative business idea. Training centers and courses offer valuable knowledge, making it a great opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to create cosmetic products, health supplements, and organic food items. . Learn More
Breastfeeding offers vital nutrition, immunity, and emotional bonding for infants. Breast milk contains antibodies, fats, proteins, and enzymes that aid development. Challenges like latching issues, low supply, and mastitis can arise, but support helps.
Growing entrepreneurial opportunities include lactation consulting, milk banks, breast pump tech, and breastfeeding products. These promote maternal health and meet the need for sustainable infant nutrition. Raising breastfeeding awareness creates both social impact and business growth in maternal-child health. Learn More
Common home water problems like contamination, hard water, and low pressure can affect daily life. Solutions include water filtration, softening systems, and proper water storage with Home water conservation techniques.
Safe drinking water indicators ensure health and safety, with methods like TDS testing and boiling. Solutions include water purification methods like RO systems, UV treatment, and wastewater treatment. Explore courses in domestic water management or start an NGO focusing on water supply and storage solutions to contribute to improving water accessibility. Learn More
Brown Medicine encompasses traditional and modern practices focused on natural remedies and holistic healing. Named for the brown-coloured herbal mixtures historically used, it includes botanical extracts, tinctures, and pharmaceuticals that promote wellness.
Common in alternative medicine, homeopathy, and even conventional care, it aids in wound healing, pain relief, and immune support. Understanding Brown Medicine reveals its scientific and cultural value, while offering expanding business opportunities in the wellness, healthcare, and organic product sectors. Learn More
Addiction is a public health crisis with severe impacts on mental, physical, sexual, social, and financial well-being. Whether caused by narcotics, alcohol, or caffeine, its effects are destructive and widespread, affecting families, communities, and healthcare systems.
This article examines substance abuse’s impact and explores recovery through detoxification, rehabilitation, and holistic approaches. We cover various addiction types, support systems like Narcotics Anonymous, and provide the tools, resources, and information necessary for healing and recovery. Learn More
Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder marked by high blood sugar due to insulin deficiency or resistance. Known as Diabetes mellitus, it includes Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes. Common symptoms are frequent urination, excessive thirst, and fatigue.
Long-term complications affect the heart, kidneys, nerves, and eyes. Effective management requires lifestyle changes and medical support. Understanding its types, causes, and treatments is crucial for early detection, control, and improved awareness through facts, quizzes, and resources. Learn More
The Mediterranean Diet is one of the healthiest eating patterns in the world, known for its heart-boosting benefits, weight management properties, and anti-aging effects. Originating from countries like Greece, Italy, and Spain, this diet emphasizes fresh vegetables, whole grains, nuts, healthy fats, and lean proteins.
Studies have shown that following a Mediterranean-style diet can reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cognitive decline. In this article, we will explore fascinating facts about the Mediterranean Diet, test your knowledge with MCQs, and provide you with valuable external resources. Learn More
The knee is a crucial joint for movement, flexibility, and weight-bearing activities like walking, running, and climbing stairs. Due to frequent use, it's prone to injuries, arthritis, and wear and tear. Proper knee support helps maintain stability, ease pain, and prevent further damage.
Whether you're an athlete, in rehabilitation, or managing chronic pain, using the right knee cap, brace, and exercises supports recovery. Understanding knee replacement, strengthening, and protective care boosts long-term joint health. Learn More
Tracking weight progress is key to knowing if you’re losing or gaining weight. Regular weigh-ins, body measurements, and progress apps help maintain focus. Effective weight change varies by person, relying on diet, exercise, and lifestyle. Apps like MyFitnessPal and Noom assist in tracking calories and progress.
Weight loss needs a calorie deficit, while weight gain requires a surplus, and strength training. Managing a pot belly is vital due to its health risks. Diets like the Planetary Health Diet support both personal and planetary health. The weight management industry offers growing resources, courses, and career opportunities. Learn More
Vitamins are essential organic compounds needed in small amounts for proper body function, supporting immunity, metabolism, and cell repair. They are classified as fat-soluble (A, D, E, K) and water-soluble (B-complex, C). In India, deficiencies like Vitamin D, B12, and A are common due to poor diets and limited sun exposure. Diabetic patients are especially vulnerable.
Vitamin supplements from brands like Amway Nutrilite and Revital help bridge nutritional gaps. Some products support sexual health. Awareness is promoted through campaigns, while companies like DSM and BASF lead in global vitamin production and nutrition innovation. Laern More
Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious bacterial infection that mainly affects the lungs but can impact other organs. It is among the world’s deadliest infectious diseases, spreading via airborne droplets. Though treatable with antibiotics, drug-resistant TB strains are a growing concern.
This article explores TB vaccines, high-mortality countries, global TB initiatives, and treatment centers. It also highlights pediatric TB, educational and career opportunities, and business prospects in TB treatment and control efforts. Learn More
Goiter is an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland, located at the base of the neck. It may be caused by iodine deficiency, hormonal imbalances, or thyroid disorders like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Some goiters cause difficulty swallowing or breathing issues.
Types include multinodular goiter, nontoxic goiter, and toxic goiter. Treatments include medication, dietary changes, or surgery. If a goiter is suspected, consult a thyroid specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment. Learn More
Superfoods are nutrient-rich foods known for their exceptional health benefits. They help boost immunity, improve digestion, and fight inflammation. Popular superfoods like chia seeds, moringa, spirulina, and turmeric are essentials for daily wellness.
With growing interest in natural health solutions, superfoods are trending in diets, skincare, and supplements. Learn to use superfoods daily, explore top superfoods for health goals, or dive into superfood careers, courses, and business opportunities—but choose certified sources wisely. Learn More
Smart insulin offers a transformative approach to diabetes care by automatically adjusting insulin delivery based on real-time blood glucose levels. Unlike conventional insulin, smart insulin responds dynamically to glucose fluctuations, reducing hypoglycemia risk and improving glycemic control. Designed to mimic the pancreas's natural function,
it enhances diabetes management with fewer interventions. Innovations like glucose-binding elements and polymer-based delivery systems drive progress, despite hurdles like cost and regulatory approval. Understanding smart insulin is key to future diabetes treatment. Learn More
Probiotics are live beneficial microorganisms that support a healthy gut microbiome, aiding digestion, boosting the immune system, and enhancing overall health. Naturally found in fermented foods and available as probiotic supplements, they help reduce inflammation, prevent digestive disorders, and improve nutrient absorption.
With options targeting gut health, women’s vaginal health, mental wellness, and skin care, this guide highlights the best probiotic strains to help you choose the right supplement. Learn More
In today’s fast-paced, health-conscious world, maintaining optimal health, energy levels, and performance depends on your nutrition. Whether you're into fitness, weight loss, or muscle gain, the right foods and supplements are key. This ultimate guide offers expert diet plans, proven fitness tips, and tailored routines for better health.
Learn how to build strength, improve focus, and boost energy—naturally and sustainably—with the right diet, supplements, and healthy lifestyle choices. Learn More
Walking is more than a basic activity—it's a powerful form of exercise that boosts physical and mental health. Whether it’s brisk walking, Nordic walking, or even walking backward on a treadmill, this low-impact activity offers huge benefits.
In today’s sedentary lifestyle, filled with screens and machines, making time for daily walking is a health necessity. It’s simple, free, and requires no equipment—just the willingness to move for better well-being. Learn More
Addiction is more than a personal struggle—it's a public health crisis with serious effects on mental health, physical health, sexual well-being, social stability, and financial wellness. From narcotics and alcohol dependence to caffeine addiction, its impact is deep and widespread.
This article explores substance abuse, deaddiction, rehabilitation, and holistic recovery. Learn about types of addiction, find support systems like Narcotics Anonymous, and access essential resources and tools for healing and recovery. Learn More
Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease. It reflects body function, mental soundness, and meaningful engagement with surroundings. In today’s world, understanding what is health is vital for a balanced life.
Achieving good health needs a focus on healthy lifestyle, preventive measures, and the benefits of health. Explore health courses, start a health NGO, or tap into health business opportunities to help yourself and others. Learn More